Sitting in Style: A History of Chairs from Thrones to Bean Bags

Chairs—they’re everywhere, but we often take them for granted. Think about it: from thrones of kings to the modern-day bean bag, chairs have been a reflection of power, style, and comfort for centuries. If you’re the type who loves hitting the road on your motorcycle, you know that having a good place to sit after a long ride is essential. But how much do you really know about the evolution of chairs? Let’s take a ride through history and see how seating has evolved from grand thrones to the humble bean bag.

Seating for the Elite

In ancient times, chairs weren’t something everyone had in their home. In fact, they were reserved for royalty and the elite. Thrones—often made from luxurious materials like gold, silver, and ivory—were symbols of power and status. Egyptian pharaohs, Roman emperors, and medieval kings all sat on elaborate thrones to display their authority.

These thrones were as much about intimidation as they were about comfort. They were designed to make the person sitting on them appear larger than life. Just like how a well-built motorcycle can give you a commanding presence on the road, a throne let everyone know who was in charge.

From Stools to Simple Wooden Seats

It wasn’t until the 16th century that chairs became more commonplace, thanks to advancements in carpentry and design. People began making simpler versions of chairs from wood, often featuring basic designs with straight backs and no frills. These were chairs for the everyman—practical, sturdy, and functional. While they didn’t have the luxury of a throne, they did the job of providing a comfortable place to sit after a hard day’s work.

For motorcyclists, these early chairs are the equivalent of a reliable, no-nonsense bike. They get the job done without all the bells and whistles. They're dependable and built to last.

The Comfort Revolution

Enter the rocking chair, a revolutionary invention that changed how people thought about sitting. Unlike the stiff, upright chairs of previous generations, rocking chairs offered relaxation. They were designed with curved legs, allowing the chair to rock back and forth, giving its sitter a sense of movement and comfort.

The rocking chair is much like cruising on a comfortable touring bike—easy, relaxing, and designed for long periods of use. Whether it’s by the fireplace or out on the porch, the rocking chair became a beloved staple of comfort in homes around the world.

The Birth of the Bean Bag

And then, in the 1960s, came the bean bag chair—the ultimate symbol of laid-back comfort. Unlike traditional chairs, bean bags have no frame and mold to the shape of your body. They’re all about comfort and informality, much like kicking back after a long ride with friends. They’re also a favorite for anyone who loves to customize their space, as they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.

For furniture enthusiasts who also love motorcycles, the bean bag is like the bobber of the furniture world—it’s simple, stripped-down, and all about the experience.